cellulite when running

If there’s one tactic for reducing cellulite — not an easy task — it’s losing weight. Of course, running regularly can help you lose weight.

An hour of running at a 12-minute-mile pace (around 5 mph) burns approximately 500 calories, depending on your weight. This can go a long way in helping you lose weight

, it’s only effective when paired with a calorie-controlled, nutritious diet. It is important to note that weight loss will not completely remove cellulite, but you’ll likely see a reduction.

If you’re not a regular runner, start slowly. Put on your running shoes and hit the trail or treadmill for 20 to 30 minutes at a time, going at a slower pace than you feel is necessary. As your body gets used to the stress it’s facing from the running, you can increase your pace and your mileage. However, each week, you should only boost your mileage by 10 percent. For example, if you start by running 2 miles, increase it to 2.2 miles the following week. This gradual build prevents you from injury or burnout.

Once you feel like a regular runner, incorporate hill runs. This will further recruit your upper-leg muscles and do even more to reduce the appearance of cellulite.